By Wilnard Bacelonia
MANILA – Senator Grace Poe on Thursday denounced the alleged neglect and abuse of animals at a Masbate dog pound after a video surfaced showing a dead dog left inside the facility.
In a statement, Poe called the incident “deplorable” and urged accountability for those responsible.
She emphasized that local government-run pounds should serve as humane facilities and comply with the Animal Welfare Act.
“Sadly, as manifested by this incident, wanton neglect is a daily reality for many animals under the care of some barangays (villages),” she said.
The senator renewed her call for the passage of a bill seeking to strengthen animal welfare laws before the current Congress adjourns.
The proposed measure includes the creation of an Animal Welfare Bureau, which would oversee animal protection efforts nationwide and ensure proper enforcement.
“Abuse, cruelty, and neglect of animals will no longer be dealt with warnings or mere slap on the wrist, but with swift and severe penalties,” she said.
A dog pound of the local government of San Jacinto, Masbate, has received criticism from some dog owners and animal welfare groups after a video circulated on social media showing a dead dog with its head trapped in the bars. (PNA)
